Sapam singh

Khuman Lampak Main Stadium: A stunning long-range strike from midfielder Rohen Singh proved to be the difference as Real Kashmir FC edged past a spirited TRAU FC 2-1 in a gripping Group F contest of the 134th Durand Cup, here at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium on Monday.

Earlier, the match came alive with two quickfire goals in the 24th and 26th minutes, first from Real Kashmir’s Marat Tareck and then TRAU’s Afridi Buyamayum, setting the tone for a fiercely contested battle in front of over 20,000 fans in attendance. But it was Rohen’s 64th-minute rocket from outside the box that ultimately sealed the deal for the Snow Leopards, clinching three vital points, despite a spirited fight from the home side.

The match began at a frenetic pace, with both sides looking to assert dominance early. TRAU had the first real chance of the match in the 13th minute when Afridi broke through, but Real Kashmir’s goalkeeper Furqan Ahmad Dar was quick off his line to deny the forward with a brave stop.